11 10 23 Vol. 45 No. 14

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 45, NO. 14 | NOVEMBER 10, 2023

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Father Nicholas Ashmore, pastor of St. Catherine Parish in Emporia, celebrates a Mass of thanksgiving on Oct. 29 in honor of the parish’s centennial. Father Ramiro Sanchez Chan, CS, director of the archdiocesan office of Hispanic ministry, concelebrated.

A CENTURY AND A SAINT

Emporia parish celebrates centennial with visit of saint’s relics

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

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MPORIA — It’s not every parish that celebrates its centennial with a papal visit. Yet, that’s exactly what St. Catherine Church here, a parish of 400 families, experienced on Oct. 29. No, Pope Francis did not fly to Kansas. Instead, the parish experienced the visit of a significant relic — one of the last four vials of blood drawn from Pope St. John Paul II. The relic wasn’t the only highlight. Festivities began at noon with the celebration of Mass in Spanish by Father Nicholas Ashmore, the current pastor, and concelebrated by Father Ramiro Sanchez Chan, CS, director of the archdiocesan office of Hispanic ministry. A meal for all parishioners followed the Mass. Originally, games and activities were planned outside for both children and adults. Due to the cold weather (at one point, it was snowing), many people

opted to take food to go or stayed inside the “little church,” which served as the parish church prior to the dedication of the current one in 2001. During the meal, parishioners shared memories and viewed photos from the parish’s history. Parishioners also had the opportunity to learn about St. John Paul II from signs placed on the grounds. Later, Father Ashmore welcomed the relic, leading a procession beginning outside at a nearby intersection and ending inside in front of the main altar. In a scene reminiscent of St. John Paul’s first missionary visit to Mexico in January 1979, parishioners lined the route and filled the church, singing while waving red and yellow flags. The relic, one of four, was brought by the Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary, a religious community of Sisters founded in 1990 in Miami by Mother Adela Galindo. The community includes a group of Brothers founded in 2021. Due to Mother Galindo’s >> See “EVERYBODY’S” on page 7

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Father Nicholas Ashmore leads the procession of a first-class relic of Pope St. John Paul II. The relic is a vial of blood drawn from the late pontiff during one of his last trips to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome in 2005. Three other vials of his blood are known to exist in the world with one being in his native Poland, one in Washington and one in Spain. This particular relic is a “missionary” or traveling relic and has been entrusted to the Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary.

2 ARCHBISHOP

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NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Purgatory is God’s ultimate mercy ­— a preparation for heaven

n the liturgical year, we begin each November with the solemnity of All Saints followed by the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, All Souls Day. This month, in a special way, the church invites and encourages us to remember all those who have died. In October, I celebrated a special Mass of the Innocents for children who died at birth or children who died before birth as a result of miscarriage or abortion. At the Mass, the parents were invited to inscribe the names of these children in memorial books. Throughout November, we keep one of these memorial books in the chapel at the chancery and another one in the chapel at my residence to remind me and our archdiocesan staff to pray for these children and their parents throughout the month. I love the solemnity of All Saints, a day when we remember the heroic Christians who have gone before us. The saints are part of our extended family. If you were baptized as a Catholic, a short Litany of the Saints was prayed during the baptismal rite, because on that day you became related to them. You became part of their family. We do not worship the saints. We do not believe them to be gods or goddesses. They are important to us precisely because they were fully human. They experienced the same challenges and some of the same adversities we do. For this reason, we can identify with them, and they can be for us examples of living a

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LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN blessed, happy life. For Christians, death is not an absolute barrier. Through prayer, our lives and the lives of those who have gone before us can continue to touch. Especially during the celebration of the Eucharist, the saints in heaven join us in this great prayer of the church on earth. We can have special patron saints — saints that we can identify with because we enjoy the same things or experience the same challenges. There are patron saints for lawyers, doctors, police, firefighters, nurses, teachers, hunters, fishermen, actors, dancers, athletes, television, the internet, for those suffering from anxiety, etc. There is literally a saint for every experience and for each of life’s challenges. Many of us were given a saint’s name by our parents. They gave us this name, in part, hoping we would cultivate a friendship with the saint whose name we share. My father died while my mother was pregnant with me. My mother named me Joseph, because Joseph was a good foster father for Jesus. She hoped that St. Joseph

would guard and protect me. She also hoped that I would be inspired by St. Joseph to strive to be a man of great faith and virtue. At confirmation, we had the opportunity to choose an additional saint’s name with whom we felt a special connection or with whom we desired to imitate the saint’s example. Each year around All Saints’ Day, the Little Sisters and Brothers of the Lamb hold a saints’ lottery. They fill a basket with the names of many saints. Each Little Sister and Little Brother, as well as friends of the community, choose a saint. The purpose is for us to grow in our knowledge of our saint and develop a deeper relationship with that particular saint. This year, I drew St. Louis de Montfort, who was a great apostle of the rosary. St. John Paul II had a great devotion to St. Louis de Montfort. I look forward to forging a deeper friendship with St. Louis de Montfort throughout the coming year. All Souls’ Day reminds us to pray for the dead. At the time of death, there are three possibilities for each of us. Some reject God by their choices and actions in this life. God gives us freedom and respects our freedom. Hell is a place of misery

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because we were created to be in communion with God. The choice to reject God in this life results in us living apart from him for all eternity. There are some that develop a beautiful friendship with Jesus during this life. These are the saints who spend their entire lives striving to free themselves from sinful attachments. They develop a purity of heart that seeks God above everything else. At the time of their death in this world, they are completely prepared to enter into heaven. Like most of us, some probably do not definitively reject God by their choices, but neither do they free themselves from idols in their lives — relationships, pleasures or things that they make more important than God. These individuals enter into purgatory, a time of purification. The church’s teaching on purgatory has not been given sufficient emphasis in our catechesis in recent years. This teaching has its roots in the Old Testament and was evident in the practice of the Christian community from its earliest days. The Catechism of the Catholic Church provides the following succinct description of this ancient belief: “All who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death, they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven” (1030). Amazingly, we believe that while we are on earth, God makes it possible for us to assist with our prayers those

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR Nov. 12 USCCB pro-life committee meeting — Baltimore NCHLA board meeting — Baltimore Nov. 13 Bishops’ general meeting — Baltimore Nov. 14 Catholic Benefits Association board meeting — Baltimore Nov. 15 Eucharistic Revival bishops’ advisory group meeting — Baltimore Nov. 17 St. Cecilia Mass and reception — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood Nov. 18 Susan Pieper consecration of virgin living in the world

whom he is liberating from disordered attachments and selfishness after death. The exact nature of this purification, we do not know. Yet, we know that such purifications in this world cannot happen without some pain. In our prayers for the dead, God allows us to love in a meaningful way those who have died. Through prayer, we can accompany others during this process of purification, and in God’s economy, somehow we are able to lighten their burden. We might compare it in this world to a friend helping us do some laborious and tedious task. Not only does our friend lessen our amount of labor, but their presence is a comfort and a joy. Purgatory is God’s ultimate mercy, where he purifies us from whatever attachments that prevent us from experiencing the complete joy he has prepared for us in his heavenly kingdom. Throughout November, I encourage

all of us to remember in prayer family and friends who have died. Be aware and grateful for our friends, the saints. Ask them to intercede for you so that you can imitate their example of love for Jesus and pursuit of holiness. At the same time, pray and intercede for friends and family who may be experiencing their time for purification. If you cannot think of anyone to pray for in your circle of family and friends, then offer prayers for the poor souls in purgatory — those who have no one to intercede for them. Most of all, during November, cultivate a grateful heart. Thank God for the gift of life and the destiny we received through the waters of baptism to live with God and participate in the Festival of the Saints. Thank Jesus for defeating death and winning the victory of life. What an amazing God! What a gift is our Catholic faith!

LOCAL NEWS 3

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Veterans connect with Father Kapaun by pilgrimage By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

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OUISBURG — There is a certain truth about men at war that Stephen Ambrose wrote about in his book “Band of Brothers.” “They also found in combat the closest brotherhood they ever knew. They found selflessness. They found they could love the other guy in their foxhole more than themselves. They found that in war, men who loved life would give their lives for them,” wrote Ambrose about Easy Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. Servant of God Father Emil Kapaun, an Army chaplain, knew this. So did the veterans who made a pilgrimage in October to pray at his tomb. Eleven parishioners from Immaculate Conception Parish in Louisburg went on a pilgrimage Oct. 3 and 4 to St. John Nepomucene Church in Pilsen, and then to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita. The pilgrimage was sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Among the pilgrims were Mike Martin, who served in the Air Force, and Ron Fields, who served in the Navy. Both are Vietnam War veterans. Martin was the main organizer of the pilgrimage, assisted by Deacon George Karnaze. Neither veteran before the pilgrimage had a particular devotion to Father Kapaun, who may be on the road to sainthood. They knew he was a Kansan and a U.S. Army chaplain who served in World War II and in Korea, where he died. These two things were enough to draw Martin and Fields. Father Kapaun was a brother. Father Kapaun was born and raised on a farm a few miles southwest of Pilsen. His devoutly Catholic parents were Czech immigrants. After high school he attended the seminary and was ordained a priest on June 9, 1940. He entered the U.S. Army in July 1944 and served in the China-Burma-India Theater. He was discharged in 1946. He rejoined the Army in 1948 and was stationed in Japan when Communist North Korea invaded South Korea in 1950. He was sent to Korea a month after the war began. Father Kapaun, with the 8th Calvary Regiment of the 1st Cavalry Division, was in

COURTESY PHOTO

Eleven parishioners from Immaculate Conception Parish in Louisburg took a pilgrimage to St. John Nepomucene Church in Pilsen, and then to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita — sites dedicated to Father Emil Kapaun, an Army chaplain who died in a Korean POW camp and may be on his way to sainthood. Dominic and Brad Grandon, members of Immaculate Conception Parish, listen to guide JoEllen Whitehair as she describes one of the buildings in which Father Kapaun and other prisoners were held.

COURTESY PHOTO

A tribute to Father Emil Kapaun is displayed at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita, which also houses his tomb. constant ministry to the living and dying. He and other GIs were captured near Unsan, North Korea, in November 1950. His fellow prisoners of war later testified how Father Kapaun committed many acts

of heroism at great risk to his life. He led the men in prayer and stole food and medicine for the sick and starving — even giving away his own food. Weakened and ill, he died in the camp’s “death house” on May 23, 1951.

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

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His body was recovered and returned to the United States as an unknown soldier, but was later identified in 2021 and entombed in the cathedral of the Diocese of Wichita. Father Kapaun was named a Servant of God in 1993 and

Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor on April 11, 2014. During the pilgrimage, the Louisburg parishioners visited the Pilsen church and the Father Kapaun Museum in the former rectory. The next day, they attended Mass at Immaculate Conception Cathedral, visited Father Kapaun’s tomb and had lunch before returning to Louisburg. Both Martin and Fields knelt, placed their hands on the tomb of Father Kapaun and prayed. It was a special moment. Martin, who graduated from Chaplain Kapaun Memorial High School (now Kapaun-Mount Carmel) in 1965, actually didn’t know too much about Father Kapaun before the pilgrimage. “The rectory is now a museum and I learned so much about that man that I never knew,” said Martin. “The guys who served with him loved him. . . . I knew he was being considered for sainthood, and had a prayer card about it — and didn’t use it — but I wanted to learn.” By odd coincidence, Father Kapaun’s younger brother Eugene, who died in 2010, was a janitor at Martin’s high school. Martin used to pass Kapaun in the hallways all the time, but never spoke to him. He wishes he did. While he was at the Pilsen church, Fields thought of a quote by Navy pilot P. McCree Thornton, who said, “To those who have fought for it, freedom has a flavor that the protected will never know.” “While I was in the church I kept thinking about that quote,” he said. “As I found out more about [Father Kapaun], how true that quote rang for him. Especially when he was being captured and went over and picked up a sergeant and kept him from being shot by a North Korean soldier.” Fields said Father Kapaun’s life and death reminded him how military persons are so dependent on each other, and he marveled at how the priest built the camaraderie of his men, sacrificed himself and sustained his imprisoned little flock. On the way home, Martin and Fields talked about Father Kapaun, Vietnam and the other men with whom they served. And, yes, there were some tears, too. Both men said they now have a devotion to Father Kapaun and would return for another pilgrimage to their “brother in arms.”

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

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4 LOCAL NEWS

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Sister of Charity educator and archivist dies Oct. 24

Pregnancy resource center celebrates 40th anniversary

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By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

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VERLAND PARK — It was the year of the Cabbage Patch doll, and the No. 1 hit song on the radio was “Every Breath You Take” by The Police. It was also the year “Return of the Jedi” was the No. 1 movie at the box office. More importantly though, 1983 saw the birth of a new ministry in the Kansas City metropolitan area: the Advice & Aid Pregnancy Centers. On Oct. 17, nearly 1,000 people gathered at the Overland Park Convention Center to raise money for Advice & Aid at its annual banquet. This year, however, the fundraiser also served as a celebration for the organization’s 40 years of ministry to women and families. Later, executive director Ruth Tisdale reflected on her own life as well as the history of and future hopes for Advice & Aid as it moves into the post-Roe era. “For me, personally, 1983 was a significant year,” Tisdale said in her presentation. “God started working in my life back then to get me ready for this job,” she said. “The day after I watched ‘Return of the Jedi,’ five days after my 15th birthday, the trajectory of my life changed forever because for the first time I knew Jesus as my savior, the Messiah, my Lord, and he wasn’t just a character in a story.” Fast forward, Tisdale said, to 2005. A friend of hers told her about Advice & Aid. “I had no idea what a pregnancy center was,” she said. “I had no idea how many abortions happen every day, nonetheless had happened in so many years. I just needed a job.” Tisdale became director of client services. Within a year, she quickly realized that God had put her there to serve as the organization’s executive director, something which became a reality in 2013. Telling the story of how she ended up in her current role, Tisdale said, is important because God works in people’s lives. “He is a personal god,” she said, adding later in her presentation that, “Each one of you tonight are here for a reason. You’re sitting in that chair for a reason. God wanted you here.” Elsewhere in her comments, Tisdale noted that the past few years have been challenging for pregnancy resource centers across the country. “We have continued to love women like God means for us to love them. The overturning of Roe v. Wade is a fantastic victory. It really is, and thousands upon thousands upon thousands of babies have been saved since that day, and thousands and thousands of women have been spared from the pain of abortion,” she said to much applause. Still, Tisdale noted, there is much work to be done in Kansas as the number of abortions performed in Kansas increased significantly in 2022, and the number of abortions

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Ruth Tisdale is the executive director of the Advice & Aid Pregnancy Centers in Overland Park. Advice & Aid celebrated its 40th anniversary this year.

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Daisy was born on Oct. 3 after her mother Holly contacted Advice & Aid. Holly had come to Kansas seeking an abortion but ended up at Advice & Aid instead. The center helped her overcome her drug addiction and get her back to work. sought by those from other states increased significantly, accounting for 69% of all abortions performed in Kansas. Still, Tisdale said, God has allowed the center to serve many clients, including Holly. A video played by Tisdale told Holly’s story, who grew up in Kansas City, but lost her way during her teenage years. She dropped out of school at age 15, had her first child at 16, another at age 18 and a third at age 20. She remained with the children’s father for around seven years, but once the two separated, Holly admitted, “That’s when I started going downhill.” A drug addiction led to a prison sentence of five years. After her release, Holly stayed clean for about a year, but eventually fell into the same patterns. Later, while her fiancé served his own prison sentence, she found herself alone and became pregnant by another man. “That’s why I came to Kansas — actually to get an abortion,” she said. Somehow, Holly found herself at Advice & Aid instead of an abortion clinic.

“I didn’t know I went to a pro-life place. That was like a shock to me,” she continued. At that point, Holly started calling “every Planned Parenthood clinic” she could find online. “They were all telling me they were booked,” she said, adding that many told her she’d have to call back the following month. “I started thinking maybe this was a sign I’m supposed to keep the baby,” she said. Advice & Aid connected her with counseling resources and resources to help her overcome her addiction. For four years, she’d been without a job due to her drug addiction. After getting clean, she went back to work, and on Oct. 3, her daughter Daisy was born. “I would tell a woman that’s facing an unplanned pregnancy that there’s so much help out there,” said Holly. “There are so many places and so many resources, and abortion is not the answer. “I hope Advice & Aid has another 40 years of great things. You guys have helped save so many people.”

EAVENWORTH — Sister Barbara Sellers, 84, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for 66 years, died here on Oct. 24. She entered religious life on Aug. 20, 1957, and took the name Sister Marion Clare when she received her habit. She later returned to her baptismal name. Sister Barbara was born on Jan. 25, 1939, in Topeka. She was the third of the six children of Frank Marion and Clara “Kay” Sellers. Her faith life was influenced by her mother’s example and bolstered by her Sister Barbara grandparents. Her Sellers, SCL grandmother was her main supporter when she decided to enter religious life after graduating from Hayden High School in Topeka. Sister Barbara was taught by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth at Hayden. The Sisters’ warmth and love of education inspired her to apply for the Sisters of Charity novitiate after graduation. While pursuing her education, Sister Barbara taught in elementary schools for the first five years of her ministry. After that, she earned degrees from the University of Kansas and the University of Pennsylvania. Sister Barbara is remembered by many as a beloved professor and administrator at the University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth. She also taught Latin at the University of Kansas during the 1968-69 school year. During her tenure at Saint Mary, Sister Barbara wore many hats — classical scholar, member of the language and literature faculty, associate dean, registrar and scheduler, and coordinator of freshmen orientation and freshmen seminar. She designed and taught peer academic counselors, preparing upperclassmen to mentor freshmen. She also taught medieval history and Latin and took student groups to Greece and Rome to immerse themselves in the ancient cultures. She always had time for her students whether helping them master mythology or teaching them to write. In 2001, she began working in the Sisters of Charity archives, moving to head archivist in 2004.

Marcia (French) and Ivan Mader, members of Holy Angels Parish, Garnett, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 3. The couple was married on Nov. 3, 1973, at Holy Angels. Their children are: Jennifer Dean, Shawnee; Emily Ballou, Fontana; Meghann Bohle, St. James, New York; and Gabe Mader, Olathe. They also have 11 grandchildren. The couple plans to celebrate at Thanksgiving with all their children and their families.

LOCAL NEWS 5

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Robotics team helps student pump up the jams By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

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OELAND PARK — When Parker McElroy tried out his Halloween costume at Bishop Miege High School here, his smile lit up the entire room. “It was the most joyful thing I’ve ever seen,” said principal Maureen Engen. “It was what life is about.” Parker is an 11-year-old boy with quadriplegic cerebral palsy. “He doesn’t sit without support, he doesn’t stand without support, he’s nonverbal,” said his father Nick. “When it comes to Halloween,” he continued, “the impact is it’s extremely hard to find any kind of Halloween costume that fits him properly but [also] fits within or on a wheelchair.” This year, four students on Miege’s robotics team were determined to change that. They volunteered to create a costume with all the bells and whistles customized just for Parker. “It meant everything,” said Nick. “For a family like ours, [there’s] a daily fight for anything for Parker — whether it’s through the doctors or insurance or anything. “When you don’t have to fight, and you can just step back and breathe and [the situation] goes beyond your expectations, it’s a big thing.” Senior Maggie Swearingen and juniors Norah Heise, Catherine O’Connor and Michaela Wilcox, under the leadership of robotics director Scott Anderson, were eager to make Parker’s Halloween special. They connected with him through Swearingen’s mom, who works with Parker as a paraprofessional at school and as a caregiver during the summer. “We were talking [between] us girls about how he needed a costume,” said Swearingen. “We brought it up to Mr. Anderson, and it evolved from there.” Anderson told the McElroys his robotics team wanted to create a costume based on Parker’s interests. “For the most part, we’re a very active family,” said Nick. “We do a lot of hunting and fishing and outdoor [activities]. Parker enjoys all that. “But for Parker, music is his go-to. Music is the one thing Parker enjoys above and beyond everything else.” When Nick and his wife Kylie suggested a DJ costume, the robotics team was up to the challenge. “A DJ booth is something [where we could] incorporate the wheelchair into the costume instead of working around it,” said Heise. The students started the project near the end of August and met with Parker early on to take measurements. In the off season, the robotics team meets two evenings a week, and the girls spent much of that time working on the costume. After six weeks, the completed product was equipped with LED lights, two turntables and a red and yellow button — one to play 30 preset songs and the other to make a scratch sound effect. Anderson said it didn’t take much to get the students motivated. “This project, I would say, is one where the kids did almost all the work,” he said. “I gave little pieces of advice every once in a while, but not much. “And that felt really good. You could tell they had ownership of it.”

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Parker McElroy tries out his DJ costume while Catherine O’Connor, left, and Michaela Wilcox make sure it’s working correctly. O’Connor, Wilcox and robotics teammates Norah Heise and Maggie Swearingen created the costume specifically for Parker, who has cerebral palsy. For O’Connor, putting her skills to use in this way was fulfilling. “I was super excited because I’ve always loved helping people with special needs,” she said. “This just deepened that love for it.” A few weeks before Halloween, the team presented Parker with his costume. He and his family were “blown away with what they provided,” said Nick. “It was really nice because it was fun to see the happiness between everyone and everything,” said Swearingen. “We were all there cheering. It was really fun to be in that moment.” Anderson agreed. “The kids know I do smile occasionally,” he said, “but I don’t usually grin that much. But that night, I couldn’t stop smiling just watching him. “It was like pure joy.” Nick said Parker showed off his costume on two special occasions — the first at a trunk-or-treat event with a group Parker participates in called Hope Outdoors. “His costume was the hit of the night,” said Nick. “Every child and every adult that were there thought it was the most amazing thing ever. “It was a big deal for Parker.” The second was with family, friends and trick-or-treaters outside the McElroy home on Halloween. For Wilcox, witnessing the effects of her team’s efforts was powerful. “Getting to see what an impact the costume made on Parker and his family was so meaningful and wholesome,” she said. “Helping a person with special needs and making a positive impact on his life has actually changed my life for the better,” she added.

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Parker McElroy shows off his Halloween costume with his brother Kyser, dad Nick and mom Kylie during a visit to Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park. This act of kindness is one many won’t soon forget, including Engen. “I was amazed,” she said, “because I knew the sincerity and the authenticity of the intentions of these girls, which

was not to get any notoriety. “It was to help one person. It was to make that young man’s life better. “To me, that is incredibly endearing.”

6 COMMENTARY

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NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Following the saints — or followed by them?

e like to think we follow the saints, but sometimes the saints follow us. As I walked home from my college class in Tours, France, I had an irresistible urge to explore the church I was passing by. As I entered, I marveled at the architecture. A choir of nuns happened to be singing vespers. The moment was like the scene where the main character experiences a revelation in every Hollywood movie, except it was actually playing out for me, in real life. I knelt in a pew at the back of the church. The nuns kept chanting. And I began to pray. Then I noticed something strange about the church. The altar appeared to have two tabernacles. How strange, I thought. This required investigation. I rose and approached the sanctuary. Even as the sun fell, the neo-Byzantine church was luminous. Gazing up at the brass chest perched on top of the high altar, I couldn’t determine what it was. I searched around for a brochure.

Discovering St. Martin Then, thanks to

FATHER PATRICK BRISCOE, OP Father Patrick Briscoe, OP, is a Dominican friar and the editor of Our Sunday Visitor.

the help of reading, I learned: The chest was not a second tabernacle, it was a reliquary. It contained a relic of the skull of St. Martin of Tours. And in fact, the church was not only dedicated to him but included his tomb. Twin staircases descended on either side of the high altar (not unlike St. Peter’s in Rome). I continued my exploration. The dimly lit crypt flickered in the candlelight. Ex-votos, mementos of prayers answered and favors received, adorned the sandstone walls. The smell of beeswax and the cold damp of the subterranean refuge were intoxicatingly peaceful. Again, I knelt in prayer. I prayed for my family. For my vocation. Probably for help with my French, too.

OSV NEWS PHOTO/PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA TIPOUNE, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

The tomb of St. Martin of Tours is located in the crypt of the Basilica of St. Martin of Tours in Tours, France. It was the first visit I made to a saint’s tomb. And it was a complete accident. I was baptized in St. Martin of Tours Church in Martinsville, Indiana. It was my grandmother’s parish, my mother’s family church. It was the place where I received the grace of faith. And here I was, an undergraduate in France, receiving grace through St. Martin, yet again. The Basilica of St. Martin of Tours was once one of the greatest monuments in the Christian world. Today,

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all that remains of the ancient church is one tower. The current church was rebuilt after the French Revolution. The building hadn’t just fallen into despair. Revolutionaries used the church as a stable, then subsequently ripped it stone from stone. Then, to make sure it couldn’t be rebuilt, they sold the stones. But it was rebuilt.

has a way. Often, that way is through his saints, who pursue us. The saints invite us to come to them — not for their own glory, but to know Christ. St. Martin’s story shows this clearly. A Roman soldier, he famously split his cloak in two and gave half to a beggar on the street one cold winter night. Christ later came to him in a dream, revealing that he had been the beggar. The inscriptions around his tomb bear eloquent testimony to the power of his intercession.

Pursued by the saints And there’s a lesson in that. Jesus always

ACROSS 1 Capital of Ghana 6 Won 10 Charity 14 Sorrow 15 Snooze 16 Removed 17 Fragrance 18 Planet 19 Decorative needle case 20 Admire 22 Raps lightly 24 Explosive 25 Mother-in-law of Ruth 27 Monastery superior 29 One of Jesus’ 12 32 The other half of Jima 33 Samuel’s mentor 34 A witch lived here 37 Sketch 41 Lease 43 Dike 44 Christmas 45 Very large trees 46 Sackcloth and __ 48 Teaspoon (abbr.) 49 Air Cushion Vehicle (abbr.) 51 Shot fired 54 Wife of Abraham, originally 56 Long boat

57 58 60 64 66 68 69 70 71 72 73 74

Entire Biblical word for You idiot! Opens Plunges Tap in lightly Son of Abraham Suffer Finished Dried coconut Food Depend Computer key

DOWN 1 Jewish calendar month 2 Kernel 3 Block 4 Book near Acts 5 Where Noah’s ark landed 6 Admiral (abbr.) 7 Raccoon-like animal 8 OT book of history 9 Loss of hope 10 Dined 11 Numbers game 12 Sermon on the __ 13 Short play 21 Pineapple brand 23 South by west 26 Heals

St. Martin’s love of Christ is what made him a saint. And through the centuries pilgrims can discover that love anew for themselves. Devotion to him is what inspired the reconstruction of the once-destroyed basilica. And through Martin’s intercession, the faithful are still discovering new grace. I know St. Martin was pursuing me that day, now 16 years ago. We are closer to the saints than we often think. And, pray God, may we one day be numbered among them.

28 29 30 31 35 36 38 39 40 42 46 47 50 52 53 54 55 56 57 59 61 62 63 65 67

This is my __ given for you Air (prefix) Supplication Pig’s comment Telegraphic signal I am the Alpha and the __ Great- grandmother of David Too Sobbed Tyrant Airman Phoenix’s BB team Motor vehicle Detect To every thing there is a __ Slab I am the __ and the Omega Hard to pass through a needle? Father of Abel Grotto Engrossed Biblical weed Blemish Position Open forcefully

Solution on page 13

LOCAL NEWS 7

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

‘Everybody’s culture is a part of who we are’ >> Continued from page 1

friendship with Bishop Slawomir Oder, who now serves as the bishop of the Diocese of Gliwice in Poland, the community has been entrusted with the relic. Bishop Oder served as the postulator for the canonization of Pope John Paul II. During St. John Paul II’s funeral Mass in 2005, the wind kept blowing open the Book of Gospels atop the casket. According to Sister Lucia Maria, SCTJM, the book kept blowing open to the Gospel of John. So, the reliquary is designed in a similar fashion. On the left side appears the late pope’s coat of arms, along with a Latin inscription that, when translated, says, “Be not afraid.” The right side features a replica of the late pontiff ’s crucifix from the top of his crozier, along with an outline of what appear to be his hands holding the crucifix. The vial of blood appears in a circle roughly in line with the pope’s hands. “We celebrate three realities today,” said Father Ashmore in his homily. “We celebrate our community. We celebrate the intercession of St. Catherine, and we celebrate the presence of Pope St. John Paul II among us.” “The church teaches that we are the members of the body of Christ, and that is both a reality, but it’s also a mission,” he said later. “We have to be able to live out that mission. We can’t just revel in the fact that we are members of the body of Christ. We have to then live [that] out as faithful disciples, and everybody has a particular part in that mission. “We aren’t a Mexican church. We aren’t a Salvadoran church. We aren’t a Peruvian church. Everybody’s culture

is a part of who we are, and each part plays an important part of who we are as a parish. Our job is not necessarily to guard the culture which, of course, plays an important part in who are, but our job is to pass on the faith of Jesus Christ.” For cousins Armida Martinez and Teresa Rodriguez, the day provided an opportunity to share stories of their parents and grandparents who were among the first 50 families from Mexico at St. Catherine. Rodriguez said that before their grandparents got married, their grandfather would get up around 3 a.m. and head to the church. He’d ready the wood-burning stove, warming the “little church” prior to the first Mass of the day. Like Martinez and Rodriguez, Carmen Torres is a descendant of one of the original families. Her grandparents came to Emporia in 1925. Additionally, her parents met at the parish. “I’m a little sad that my mom and dad aren’t here to see it, to see how [the parish] has grown,” Torres said. “It brought tears to my eyes to see how pretty they decorated the church.” Likewise, Sister Guadalupe, who serves in the parish and is a member of the Missioneras Guadalupanas de Cristo Rey based in Mexico City, said the day brought her much joy, especially with the added gift of the relic visit. “My joy started as soon as I got the news that St. Catherine’s was going to have the relic here at her own church,” she said, “and during the whole preparation, I’ve been in joy for this day.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Braden Weber and his son Francis venerate the relic of St. John Paul II while Brother Gilberto and Sister Monica Bernadette, both of the Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary, look on.

THAT FALL FEELING

The last couple of months of Ordinary Time here in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas are turning out to be anything but “ordinary,” as Leaven photographers are discovering. On the go through the busy weeks of October, and with full calendars for November, they’re hard at work capturing indelible images of the many ways the Lord is at work in the church of northeast Kansas. Follow us on Facebook @theleavenkc for more.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

p SING PRAISE

The Our Lady & St. Rose Gospel Choir held its 14th annual concert on Oct. 1 at Our Lady & St. Rose Church in Kansas City, Kansas. The choir is known throughout the archdiocese for its vibrant and movin

DECADE OF DEDICATION

Father Israel of the Crucified Lord, PJC, and Sister Liz of the Blessed Virgin Mary, PJC, are all smiles at the special anniversary celebration of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ. The order, which originated in Brazil, has four missions in the United States. The mission in Kansas City arrived 10 years ago.

p COOL RUNNINGS

PHOTO BY AMY WILKEN

Father Mark Ostrowski, chaplain of St. James Academy in Lenexa, prays on a chilly morning at the Kansas Class 5A state cross country meet at Rim Rock Farm in Lawrence with athletes from St. James and St. Thomas Aquinas in Overland Park. The St. James girls won the Class 5A state championship, while Aquinas finished third. On the boys side, Aquinas finished fifth, while St. James finished seventh.

t INNOCENTS LOST

A couple writes the name of a loved one who died in a Book of Remembrance during the annual Mass of Innocents Oct. 15 at Holy Spirit Church in Overland Park. The event is open to all who have experienced a loss through miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS or other types of infant death.

u GOLDEN

Friends and classmates from the Kansas City, Kansas, Bishop Ward class of 1969 gathered together to celebrate each other’s wedding anniversary of 50 years or more. From left are: Gloria (Palcher) and Van Davison, Sharon (Bartkoski) and Victor Patti, Ginny (Flack) and Jerry Crum, Donna (Seufert) and Randy Rohner, Terry and Ginger Schoenberger and Linnie (Smerker) and Ike Isenburg. All the women, along with Victor Patti, are Ward graduates of 1969. PHOTO COURTESY OF GINGER SCHOENBERGER

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

p FOOTLOOSE

Tony Meléndez — a NicaraguanAmerican guitar player, composer, singer and songwriter who was born without arms — was the keynote speaker and performer at ReachKCK’s confirmation bonfire on Oct. 15 at Blessed Sacrament Church in Kansas City, Kansas.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

ng performances.

t K-STATE MASS

PHOTO BY BRYSON BRANDT

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann celebrates Mass at the St. Isidore’s Catholic Student Center in Manhattan on the Kansas State University campus on Oct. 29. Father Matt Davied, parochial vicar of the center, assisted the archbishop with Mass. Although St. Isidore’s is in the Diocese of Salina, the archbishop makes frequent visits to the center because the university draws many students from the archdiocese.

10 FEATURE

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Radical solidarity through fostering kids, supporting families

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ntil my husband and I found ourselves struggling with infertility, we’d never thought much about foster care. When we decided to begin fostering, it was primarily in hopes that we might eventually adopt. At that time, we did not understand why the goal of foster care was to reunify children with their birth families, especially when the families were so obviously broken as to require their removal in the first place. Then we got the call for our first placement. When we went to the hospital after Anthony had been born, I wondered about his birth mother who had just gone through nine months carrying him in her womb and endured childbirth only to have her baby boy ripped from her arms and placed into mine. My heart ached for her. This woman who gave birth to the greatest joy of my life up to that point would return home with no baby. Yes, she had problems that made it unsafe for her to raise her child. Yes, it was clearly best for the child to be placed elsewhere. But what would become of her? As Catholics, we do a good job of supporting women in crisis pregnancies and we’ve begun focusing more on walking with moms after they give birth. Yet, many Catholics are still unaware of the urgent need to get further involved by

KIMBERLY HENKEL Kimberly Henkel, Ph.D., has a doctorate in moral theology and is the founder of Springs of Love, an apostolate that encourages, educates, and equips Catholics to discern and live out the call to foster and adopt.

fostering and supporting foster families (and reunification, when possible) by walking with moms and dads in a stance of radical love and solidarity. After fostering and adopting four children, my husband and I founded Springs of Love, an apostolate to help Catholics discern and live out the call to foster and adopt. Part of our mission includes producing inspiring video stories of those touched by fostering and adoption, available online at: springsoflove.org, EWTN On-Demand and FORMED. Our latest video, “One Big Family,” features a family whose story exemplifies radical solidarity. PJ and Kristina, hoping to grow their family of six through adoption, signed up to become foster parents. They didn’t realize how inviting children in foster care into their

OSV NEWS PHOTO/COURTESY SPRINGS OF LOVE

This is an image from a video for Springs of Love, a Catholic apostolate that encourages, educates and equips Catholics to discern and live out the call to foster and adopt. home would stretch their hearts to love not only the children who came to them, but also the children’s birth families. After almost three years of fostering two young boys, it looked as if PJ and Kristina would be able to adopt them. However, the boys’ father Josh notified the agency that he was being released from prison, had turned his life around and would do whatever he needed to get his boys back. Within a few months, he met all of the requirements, and the boys went home with their father. PJ, Kristina and their kids were heartbroken. Josh soon realized that PJ and Kristina’s family genuinely loved his boys. He saw how they’d opened their hearts to him, too, and he grew to trust and rely on them for support. Now, the boys spend at least one weekend a month with their former foster family, which brings PJ and Kristina great joy. Josh explains, “We are

LET’S RE-IMAGINE FOSTER CARE AS A PATHWAY TOWARD HEALING FOR HURTING FAMILIES. WHEN WE OPEN OUR HEARTS AND HOMES TO LOVE A CHILD IN FOSTER CARE, WE CAN EXTEND OUR LOVE TO HIS OR HER BIRTH PARENTS TO ENCOURAGE AND PRAY FOR THEM. all one big family now.” Fostering is challenging, and sadly, about 50% of foster families stop fostering after one year. The retention rate, however, increases to 90% when those families feel sufficiently supported. Every Catholic can stand in radical solidarity with families in crisis by supporting a foster family. Parishes can start a Springs of Love Foster Team to arrange a weekly meal, babysitting, help with material needs for a new placement, driving kids to appointments and prayer support for a foster family. They can also offer this same

support for a mother or father at risk of losing their children to foster care. Children for whom it is unsafe to return home need loving families to adopt them. There are currently over 100,000 children in the foster care system who are eligible for adoption. Many will age-out with no family to call their own — identifying another opportunity for radical solidarity by inviting them into our families. Of the young adults who age-out, many end up becoming victims of human trafficking, homelessness and drugs, and

71% of young women are pregnant within a year. Many go on to repeat the cycle of abuse and neglect that they grew up knowing. Let’s re-imagine foster care as a pathway toward healing for hurting families. When we open our hearts and homes to love a child in foster care, we can extend our love to his or her birth parents to encourage and pray for them. If reunification occurs, we can continue our support and connection with that family. The true goal of radical solidarity is to witness the profound love of God who invites us into his family as his adopted sons and daughters. Foster families emulate the heart of the Father when they welcome those who may never have known the love and warmth of a family. In this way, they help bring to fruition the promises of God who “sets the lonely in families” (Ps 68:6).

ANNUAL GOLUMBKI DINNER IN LEAVENWORTH

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he St. Casimir Men’s Society will host its annual Golumbki Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 19, in the St. Casimir Parish Hall at 719 Pennsylvania Ave. in Leavenworth. Dinner will be served from noon to 3 p.m. Takeout will be available beginning at 11 a.m. Tickets cost only $12 for adults and $6 for children 12 and under. Come join your friends in Leavenworth for this traditional Polish feast. Meatloaf will also be served. AD COURTESY OF DOUG SCALARD, CFP®

WORLD 11

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Christmas celebrations canceled in solidarity with Gaza

By Dale Gavlak OSV News

A

MMAN, Jordan (OSV News) — Churches in Jordan are canceling Christmas celebrations in solidarity with Gaza as violence in the Palestinian enclave mounts. The leaders of Jordan’s Council of Churches announced Nov. 5 the cancellation of all festivities and events to express deepening concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis engulfing Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Viewed as a poignant gesture of respect for the innocent victims and the reverent sacrifices made by those in Gaza and the West Bank, the council has called for a solemn observance of Christmas through prayer and religious rituals. It said that Christmas bazaars, gift distributions for children, decorative initiatives and scout parades would be canceled. “We canceled the external celebrations of Christmas. The decision was made to focus on the spiritual meaning of Christmas — the birth of Jesus. It’s solidarity with the people of Gaza,” Father Rifat Bader told OSV News. He directs the Catholic Center for Studies and Media in the Jordanian capital. “We will focus only on the religious celebration, including worship services and songs inside the churches, and nothing outside the churches,” Father Bader explained. He told OSV News that one of his cousins is a Dominican Sister of the Most Holy Rosary of Jerusalem serving in Holy Family Parish in Gaza and he is in constant contact with her. She is one of two Jordanians who along with an Egyptian nun serve the Christian

OSV NEWS PHOTO/MUATH FREIJ, REUTERS

People visit a Christmas market in the city of Fuheis near Amman, Jordan, on Dec. 18, 2021. Churches in Jordan are canceling outdoor 2023 Christmas celebrations and activities in solidarity with Gaza as violence in the Palestinian enclave mounts. community and ordinary citizens in Gaza City. “The Rosary Sisters, the Missionaries of Charity founded by St. Teresa of Calcutta, and the Sisters of the Incarnate Word are doing a great, courageous job serving the people of Gaza,” Father Bader said. “They are putting aside their own personal fears in order to take care of the people with whom they are living

day and night inside the church. These are heroes in Gaza, and we pray God will protect them in order to continue the Christian presence in Gaza,” the priest explained. Father Bader said Jordanians and Jordan’s population of Palestinian descendants “also are suffering together with the people of Gaza. We are the closest country to Palestine, to Gaza, that is why we are not celebrating Christmas

Caritas forges ‘humanitarian bridge’ to Acapulco

By David Agren OSV News

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CAPULCO, Mexico (OSV News) — The morning after Hurricane Otis stormed through here as a Category 5 monster, Father Leonardo Morales surveyed the damage and saw total destruction. “It looked like a war zone,” Father Morales, archdiocesan Caritas director, said in WhatsApp messages shared with OSV News. “It hit everyone.” People in Acapulco have been left to pick up the pieces after Hurricane Otis battered the already down-onits-luck tourist destination. The storm made landfall Oct. 25 as the strongest hurricane to hit Mexico’s Pacific Coast with winds reaching 165 mph. Caritas chapters across Mexico have established collection centers and sent donations to Acapulco, which was left incommunicado after the storm and so badly battered that electricity still hasn’t been fully restored. Many of Acapulco’s residents lived in poor neighborhoods of selfbuilt dwellings, which were obliterated in the storm, according to clergy familiar with the city. The situation

with joy this year.” More than 10,000 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its military offensive one month ago, according to the Hamas-controlled Health Ministry. That toll is expected to rise in the coming days as Israeli troops battle Hamas militants in Gaza City’s narrow streets and the vast network of tunnels below.

Italy grants citizenship to critically ill child refused further treatment in the UK

R OSV NEWS PHOTO/HENRY ROMERO, REUTERS

People stand near street stalls damaged by Hurricane Otis near the entrance to Acapulco, in the Mexican state of Guerrero, Oct. 25. Hurricane Otis tore across Mexico’s southern Pacific coast as a powerful and dangerous Category 5 hurricane, unleashing massive flooding in the resort city of Acapulco. has been aggravated by businesses being unable to open amid shortages of water and electricity — and many stores having been looted after the storm. As of Nov. 6, the death toll stood at 47 with 56 missing, according to the Mexican government. “Help is arriving from Caritas chapters in other states,” said Father Morales.

At least 100 tons of aid have been delivered to the Diocese of Chilpancingo-Chilapa, some 65 miles north of Acapulco, according to Father José Filiberto Velázquez, diocesan director of social ministries. In the touristy city torn into pieces, every basic necessity is urgently needed, including clean water.

OME (OSV News) — The Italian government granted citizenship to Indi Gregory, an 8-month-old child suffering from a degenerative disease who is at the center of a legal battle in the U.K. to keep her on life support. After a Nov. 6 emergency meeting, the Italian Council of Ministers said the resolution granting citizenship was made after the Vatican-owned Bambino Gesù children’s hospital expressed its willingness to offer treatment for the child who suffers from mitochondrial disease, an illness that prevents cells from producing energy. “The Italian government has also communicated to the hospital management and the family its commitment to cover the costs of health treatments that are deemed necessary,” the council said. In a statement released by Christian Concern, a nonprofit advocacy group working with the family, Indi’s father Dean Gregory said Italians had given him and his wife Claire “hope and faith back in humanity.” “The Italians have shown us care and loving support and I wish the U.K. authorities were the same,” he said. “I’m very proud to say Indi has Italian citizenship and I thank the Italian government and the Italian people from the bottom of my heart.”

12 CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Campus minister - St. James Academy is seeking a full-time campus minister. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic with a passion for evangelization and discipleship who is experienced in Catholic ministry. Those interested should apply at the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org/apply and send a cover letter and resume to the vice president of faith and mission, Deborah Nearmyer, at: dnearmyer@sjakeepingfaith.org. Catholic elementary school principal – St. Matthew, Topeka, is seeking an individual with demonstrated skill in the academic and spiritual formation of students, as well as in the recruitment, development and retention of high caliber, joyfully Catholic faculty and staff. The principal must be current regarding best practices in Catholic education and be able to lead a diverse community in continually striving for greatness. St. Matthew has approximately 140 students in grades K-8 and employs 15 teachers. Applicants for principal must be practicing Catholics, understand the mission of Catholic schools and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Proficiency in Spanish is preferred. Please apply on line at: www.archkckcs.org/apply. For more information, please contact Rev. John M. Torrez at: jtorrez@ archkck.org. Deadline for applications is Nov. 30. Bookkeeper/accountant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire a full-time bookkeeper/accountant. Responsibilities include all aspects of the accounts receivable functions for the chancery offices and to issue invoices to parishes and archdiocesan institutions. A minimum of two years’ relevant work experience in accounts receivable or other accounting functions is preferred. Please go online to: archkck.org/jobs and scroll down and click on “Current Job Openings” then click on “Bookkeeper/ Accountant” for details and to apply. Coordinator of vision and campus ministry - The Didde Catholic Campus Center is seeking a coordinator of vision and campus ministry position. The coordinator is responsible for the pastoral and strategic leadership of the campus faith community in an academic setting. The position is full-time exempt, based on 40 hours per week, with a flexible schedule and some presence during weekend and evening events as necessary. To apply, contact Father Ashmore at: chaplain@diddecenter.org; Vickie Walworth at: vickie@diddecenter.org; or call (620) 343-6765. Rockhurst University associate director of advancement and planned giving - This position assists the university community in relationship building and obtaining financial resources necessary to fulfill its mission and achieve the ongoing vision of the board of trustees and the executive leadership team. This person helps identify prospects, develops unique solicitation strategies, personally solicits gifts, tracks and reports gift visits, and manages a stewardship strategy for the portfolio. To apply, go to: www.rockhurst.edu/about/human-resources/ faculty-staff-positions/. Click on “View Current Job Openings.” Part-time LIFEChoice associate - The purpose of the LIFEChoice intern is to assist in the execution of the Coalition Life mission of “Ending Abortion Peacefully and Prayerfully” through sidewalk counseling activities at the local abortion facility in Overland Park and collaboration with volunteers, churches and donors. Furthermore, the LIFEChoice intern assists with office- and outreach-related tasks as assigned by the intern’s supervisor. Requirements include: pray daily for the mission of Coalition Life; no experience needed; flexible work schedule; 20 - 29 hours per week; work three - four shifts per week; maintain equipment and signs at sidewalk counseling/prayer vigil locations; and assist with banquet and other fundraising or outreach activities. To apply, go online to: coalitionlife.com/jobs. Part-time accountant - St. Pius X Parish in Mission is looking to hire a part-time accountant. This position usually requires two - five hours per week and requires working from home with a church-provided computer loaded with QuickBooks accounting software. Responsibilities include overall financial management, payroll, accounts payable, posting weekly deposits, preparing monthly financial statements and annual budget, reconciliation of accounts and other financial tasks. The successful candidate will preferably have an accounting degree with five years’ experience along with strong interpersonal and communication skills. If interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to: galba@spxmission.org. Catholic high school principal - Bishop Ward School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking an individual with demonstrated skill in the academic and spiritual formation of students, as well as in the recruitment, development and retention of high caliber, joyfully Catholic faculty and staff. The principal must be current regarding best practices in Catholic education and be able to lead a diverse community in continually striving for greatness. Proficiency in speaking Spanish is preferred! Bishop Ward has approximately 300 students in grades 9 - 12 and employs 33 teachers. Applicants for principal must be practicing Catholics, understand the mission of Catholic schools and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: www.archkckcs. org/apply. For more information, contact Jay Dunlap, president, at: jdunlap@wardhigh.org. Bishop Ward is accepting applications until the position is filled and will reach out to candidates as applications are submitted. Deadline for applications is Nov. 15.

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG Early childhood educators - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child-care in a safe, loving Christian environment. Our classrooms are full and we are looking to add to our amazing team. We are looking for both full-time and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education, we would love to meet you. For more information or to apply, call Anne at (913) 894-0131, ext. 102. In-home caregiver - We are looking for an engaging in-home caregiver for our son with special needs in western Shawnee. He loves music, interacting with others, reading books, and is learning new life skills. Help needed weekdays (anytime between 3-10 p.m.) and some shifts on weekends @ $17/hr. Please call (785) 393-1589. Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: nursing school faculty, admissions counselor, director of development. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers. Caregivers needed - Daughter & Company is looking for compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide sitter services, light housekeeping and light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team. Now hiring - drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students in Johnson and Wyandotte Counties, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees are encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need! Call (913) 262-5190 or visit www.assistedtransportation. com for more information. EEO. Assistant direct support professional - L’Arche Heartland is seeking an assistant direct support professional. This person would report to the community home supervisor. Key responsibilities include: utilize person-centered support plan to provide guidance, support, growth and development opportunities to each core member through attentiveness and caring; be a strong role model of appropriate behavior; foster positive and supportive relationships among core members as well as families and professionals; follow all policies, procedures and protocols to ensure core member safety; participate and contribute to house team meetings to ensure household is maintained to include regular upkeep, meal planning and preparation as well as event planning and community interaction; monitor and assist core members with the following as needed: personal hygiene, appearance, laundry, meal preparation, cleaning, personal finances and leisure activities while promoting core member independence; perform all documentation activities (financial, medication, behavior, etc.) as required by policy/programming while maintaining confidentiality; transport core members as assigned; administer medication, properly document and assist with securing refills; participate in and adequately complete training and recertification as required, both ongoing and upon hire; participate in community events and activities as appropriate. Required skills/ abilities: exhibit respect and caring for core members and all those involved in the support of group home residents; demonstrate excellent communication and organizational skills; have the ability to problem solve and manage conflicts objectively. Experience and education requirements: experience with persons with developmental disabilities (highly preferred). Have a valid driver’s license; have a high school education or equivalent. Pass all required background checks; maintain CPR/first-aid certification. Physical requirements: must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times; must be able to perform activities of daily living such as cooking and cleaning; able and willing to assist in house maintenance/yard work. Include signature and printed name with application. Email: Assistant@ larcheks.org or call (913) 341-2265. Full-time custodian - The Church of the Nativity Parish School has immediate openings for a full-time custodian. Qualified applicants should have prior custodial experience, specifically in a school environment. Maintenance experience would be a plus. The full-time position is scheduled to work M-F from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the part-time from 4 to 8 p.m. M-F. Some holiday work is expected. Applicants must have a compatible work history, references, dependable transportation and be willing to participate in a background check. The Church of the Nativity expects to pay market compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications. Nativity has a history of retaining its employees, who enjoy the advantages of working at a vibrant, collaborative, faithbased place of worship and education. Nativity Parish School is located at 3700 W. 119th, Leawood. Nativity offers a comprehensive benefit program including medical, dental, vision, vacation and 401(k). Interested applicants should send resumes and work history to: mhyde@kcnativity.org. No phone calls please. RN needed - RN, Kansas-licensed for private internal medicine office. Permanent part time, hourly wage. Excellent location and collegial work atmosphere. Call (913) 491-6633.

Scientific equipment technician - Would you like to make a difference in a small growing company? Seeking individuals looking for flexible part-time work maintaining and repairing small equipment for our family company which has been in the local area for over 40 years. Service is completed at customer’s locations locally and within a four-state area. Dependable transportation is a must. Positive attitude, dependability, time management and self-motivation skills, as well as being quality- and customer-oriented are required. Mostly on-the-job training. Electrical knowledge a plus. Please send resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com. Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served. Faculty job openings include nursing school faculty. Adjunct faculty job openings: clinical nursing adjunct, and psychology pool, and math at Lansing Correctional Campus. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers. Make a meaningful impact today - Join L’Arche Heartland as an assistant in our Day Service Program. Contribute to the empowerment and enrichment of adults with developmental disabilities as they engage in meaningful daytime activities. Enjoy evening and or weekend hours, Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. We have immediate full-time positions available. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% coverage for medical, dental and vision expenses. Conveniently situated in downtown Overland Park. Training provided. Apply now by visiting our website at: www.larcheks.org/ join-our-team. Drivers and riders needed - Drivers needed part time. We take patients to behavioral health facilities around town. Retirees welcomed. Two employees (don’t need to be drivers) ride in the company van on every trip. See Geminitransports.com or call Robert at (785) 766-5763 for more information.

SERVICES ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: pathwayprepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com. Garage Door Repair Expert New Garage Doors Garage Floor Coatings A Total Door Inc., Sine ‘83. Leaven discount joe@atotaldoor.com (913) 236-6440 WELLERBEEF.COM - Let us be your local farm source for beef for your dinner table. Local, Catholic, family farm. Humanely raised. No antibiotics/hormones. Grass fed and traditional. Starter pack to a whole cow. Free delivery in Kansas City area. We pay the butcher’s processing fees. Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footing, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371, or email: dandeeconst@aol.com. Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload, and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com. Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; secondgeneration bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 271-0362. Double A’s lawn service Lawn mowing, mulching, gutters, leaf removal, brush removal and hedge trimming Free estimates, insured and insured. Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195. Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

FOR SALE

HOME IMPROVEMENT STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 5791835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. Tradesman - I do bathrooms, kitchens, basements, tile and all kinds of flooring, as well as painting, staining, sheetrock, knockdown ceilings, decks and fences. My family and I always appreciate the support. Please call Joshua at (913) 709-7230. Check out my Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/FSHome ExteriorsandRemodeling. Call or email Joshua to set up a free estimate at (913) 709-7230 or at: josh.fser@ gmail.com. Free estimates - We are offering free estimates to all those thinking about painting this year. At Stone Painting, we put the customer first. We provide interior, exterior house painting along with deck staining, fence painting, etc. Stone Painting ensures a professional, clean and fair-priced job. Call today for your free estimate. (913) 963-6465. Haus to home remodeling - Let’s give that room a nice face-lift! Specializing in affordable room remodeling. From small projects to bathrooms and basements. We have lots of other services, too: tile, paint, carpentry, wood rot, decks, drywall, etc. Free estimates. For photos of our projects and to find out more about our company, visit us at: Haustohomekc. com or call Cole at (913) 544-7352. Local Handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, mason repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list, window cleaning and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

REAL ESTATE We are local people who can buy your house - Big companies from all over the nation come here buying houses, but that’s not us. We are parishioners of Holy Trinity Parish and we enjoy giving you personalized service. We can offer you a fair price and are flexible to your needs. If I can help, call me, Mark Edmondson, at (913) 980-4905. We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.

CAREGIVING Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary. Saint Rita Home Care - Compassionate care in the comfort of home. We serve people in Johnson, Douglas, Miami, Franklin and Leavenworth counties. Kansas state licensed, nonmedical home care agency. Contact us today for supportive care at: www. saintritahc.com; rmargush@saintritahc.com; or (913) 229-4267. Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www. Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905. Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

For sale - Two plots at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Olathe. Lot 25, plots 3 and 4. One burial vault and one interment fee. Current value is $6200, asking $3000. Seller to pay conveyance fee. Call Bob at (913) 768-0668.

Cash paid - for old tools, old jewelry, old furniture, military items, fishing lures, hunting items, old crocks, arrowheads and old signs. I buy all kinds of older things — house or barn contents, an estate or just one item. Call Patricia any time at (913) 515-2950. Parishioner at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.

Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC).

Wanted to buy - I buy coin collections, military items, pocket watches, jewelry, class rings, old toys, holiday items and more. Cash in hand. Call Kirk at (913) 2139843.

For sale - Single plot suitable for regular burial or cremation. Mt. Calvary Cemetery, KCK. Section 11, lot 80, space 3-A. Valued at $2200. Sell for $2100 and I pay conveyance fee. Contact David at (913) 980-0042.

CALENDAR 13

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA All Saints Parish 811 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 10 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benediction will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, visit the website at: www. rosaryrallieskc.org.

16TH ANNUAL GIFT GALLERY Curé of Ars Parish 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 10 from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Nov. 11 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Gift Gallery is a unique shopping event that features over 60 local artisans and vendors. It is an annual public fundraiser organized by the Mothers of Young Children from Curé of Ars. All the proceeds are given to local charities that are meaningful to our members. This event will include a Santa’s workshop, with a visit from Santa for kids on Nov. 11.

ST. JAMES ACADEMY OPEN HOUSE 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa Nov. 11 from 9 - 11:30 a.m.

It’s never too early to start exploring which high school is the best fit for your student and family. Open house is the perfect place to start. Come and see how our mission is lived out daily. Learn more and sign up online at: sjathunder.org/admissions/ events/open-house.

BINGO FUNDRAISER Holy Family Parish (Msgr. Mejak Hall) 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 11 at 5:30 p.m.

Dinner will be served from 6:15 - 7:15 p.m. A $20 donation includes one bingo card, sausage sandwich dinner, dessert and two beverage tickets. Bingo begins at 7:30 p.m. and includes two blackouts and 20 bingo games and cash prizes. Additional beverages will be available for sale. No one under the age of 21 will be admitted. For more information, contact Sarah (Simonich) Lee at (913) 905-9399 or Sandy Cannon at (913) 396-1564.

BINGO NIGHT Sacred Heart Parish 2464 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 11 at 7 p.m.

The Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus

will be hosting bingo for cash prizes. Refreshments will be sold. For more information, call Bob at (913) 850-3348.

EL SALVADOR FAIR TRADE CRAFT SALE Good Shepherd Parish (narthex) 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee Nov. 11 from 4 - 6 p.m. Nov. 12 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

This event to help this event support scholarships and the women’s committee of our sister parish of El Buen Pastor in El Salvador. Many Salvadoran crafts including rosaries, crosses and beautiful items lovingly embroidered by women in the community will be available. Salvadoran coffee and fair trade chocolate bars will be for sale as well.

BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS Divine Mercy Parish 555 W. Main St., Gardner Nov. 12 from 8:30 - 10 a.m.

The breakfast will include eggs, sausage and gravy, pancakes, fruit and drinks. Join us for great fellowship. The cost is: $6 for those over the age of 11; $3 for kids ages 3 - 11; and kids under the age of 3 eat for free. Proceeds are used for charitable works, such as scholarships and other giving through the year.

YEAR-END TAX REDUCING STRATEGIES LUNCH AND LEARN St. Patrick Parish (center) 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 15 from 12:15 - 2:30 p.m.

Mass begins at 12:15 p.m. (optional) with Father Mark Mertes as the celebrant. After Mass, head over to the parish center for a free lunch. Bill Eckert will begin the presentation about year-end charitable giving, ways to give through stocks, life insurance and IRAs. Learn ways to minimize capital gains taxes. Register online at: cfnek.org/ events; send an email to Jane Schmitt at: jschmitt@archkck.org or call (913) 6473060.

HEARTACHE TO HEALING Church of the Ascension (St. John’s Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Nov. 16 at 6:30 p.m.

This is a social support group for 40to 60-year-old widows and widowers. Join us for lighthearted conversation about how to do all the jobs around the house. We will share our knowledge and answer questions from the grab bag, so bring your questions. Feel free to bring a drink or snack to share as we laugh and learn together.

Send an RSVP — appreciated, but not necessary — by email to Laura at: khaeus1@hotmail.com; Heather at: hmbimpens@gmail. com; or Damon at: damon452@yahoo.com. Come make some new friends.

you know of a member or family member of Daughters of Isabella in need of the circle’s prayers, call Shirley Gustafson at (785) 213-0374 or chancellor Gen Orozco at (785) 213-0374.

POTLUCK HOLIDAY LUNCHEON Most Pure Heart of Mary (Culhane Room) 3601 W. 17th St., Topeka Nov. 16 from 1:30 - 4:30 p.m.

ORGAN DEDICATION CONCERT Holy Trinity Parish 13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa Nov. 19 at 2 p.m.

The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will host the potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 230-2473 or send an email to: gen_orozco@yahoo.com.

IMMIGRANT ASSISTANCE Keeler Women’s Center 759 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 16 from 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Assistance is by appointment only. Appointments with an immigration lawyer are free and are available in-person or virtually.

CRAFT SHOW AND BAKE SALE Mother Teresa Parish 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka Nov. 16 from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Nov. 17 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Shop for the holidays! Enjoy a large selection of handcrafted items and homemade treats. Many new and unique gifts and decor. Soups and cinnamon rolls will be available for purchase during lunch.

ANGSTROM BRASS PRESENTS: ‘MEMENTO MORI’ Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception 416 W. 12th St., Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 18 at 7 p.m.

Join the musicians of Angstrom Brass for this unique concert experience, based on the classic “Lessons and Carols” format of alternating musical selections and Scripture readings. This will be a meditation on the Four Last Things: death, judgment, heaven and hell. Tickets cost $25. For more information, visit the website at: angstrom-brass-memento-mori-2023. eventbrite.com.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Nov. 19 at 1 p.m.

There will be a Mass for deceased members followed by a potluck dinner. If

The concert will be presented by Stephen Steely — organist, pastoral musician and Allen Organ Co. sales associate — celebrating the installation of a new Allen GX-350. Steely will present a repertoire that demonstrates the many and varied “voices” of the new organ. All are invited to attend free of charge. For more information, contact Holy Trinity music director Dr. Chloe Stodt at (913) 895-0682 or send an email to: cstodt@htlenexa.org.

CHILI DINNER AND BINGO St. Patrick Parish (center) 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 25 at 6 p.m.

There will be a chili dinner and bingo, serving chili, hot dogs, cornbread, dessert, tea and lemonade. The cost for adults is $10 and $5 for children. Questions? Call Fritz Vertz at (913) 515-0621.

GIFTS FROM THE KITCHEN Keeler Women’s Center 759 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 27 from 10 - 11 a.m.

Who said all gifts had to be bought? Join us and get ideas for gifts you can make at home in your own kitchen that will impress all.

ADVENT SILENT RETREAT Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Dec. 1 - 3

This retreat begins on Dec. 1 at 5:30 p.m. and ends on Dec. 3 at 4:30 p.m. Prepare your hearts for the coming of the Lord this Advent as we explore the essence and promise of the Advent season and gain a new understanding of the coming of Christ. There are conferences, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection and walking.

YEAR-END TAX REDUCING STRATEGIES WORKSHOP St. Joseph Parish (hall) 221 N. Sycamore, Nortonville Dec. 12 at 5:30 p.m.

Father William Dun-Dery invites all to attend Bill Eckert’s presentation on yearend tax-reducing strategies and charitable year-end giving. Learn ways to give through stocks, life insurance and IRAs, and ways to minimize capital gains. Register online at: cfnek.org/events; send an email to Jane Schmitt at: jschmitt@archkck. org; or call (913) 647-3060.

SOLUTION

14 COLUMNISTS

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

I really can’t stress this enough

DAILY READINGS THIRTY-SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Nov. 12 THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Wis 6: 12-16 Ps 63: 2-8 1 Thes 4: 13-18 Mt 25: 1-13 Nov. 13 Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin Wis 1: 1-7 Ps 139: 1-10 Lk 17: 1-6 Nov. 14 Tuesday Wis 2:23 – 3:9 Ps 34: 2-3, 16-19 Lk 17: 7-10 Nov. 15 Albert the Great, bishop, doctor of the church Wis 6: 1-11 Ps 82: 3-4, 6-7 Lk 17: 11-19 Nov. 16 Margaret of Scotland; Gertrude, virgin Wis 7:22b – 8:1 Ps 119: 89-91, 130, 135, 175 Lk 17: 20-25 Nov. 17 Elizabeth of Hungary, religious Wis 13: 1-9 Ps 19: 2-5 Lk 17: 26-37 Nov. 18 The Dedication of the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul, Apostles; Rose Philippine Duchesne, virgin Wis 18: 14-16; 19: 6-9 Ps 105: 2-3, 36-37, 42-43 Lk 18: 1-8

VINCENT OF LERINS died 450

After a career as a soldier, St. Vincent became a monk and priest at the monastery of Lerins. He set out to devise a general rule to distinguish Christian truth from heresy. So, he studied Scripture, the Fathers of the Church and the general councils. To reinforce his memory, Vincent summarized his findings in a little book, “The Commonitory,” or “Reminder.” In the treatise, he established his oft-quoted principle on tradition as the test of orthodoxy — the true Catholic faith is that which has been “believed everywhere, always and by all.” Vincent’s also taught that doctrine was not static. Christian truth could evolve so long as the inner reality remained unchanged, like a seed growing into a plant.

S

ometimes, you gotta laugh. I was supposed to have a doctor’s appointment on All Saints’ Day. I dutifully called several days before to cancel and reschedule. The appointment was moved to a week later. On Oct. 30, I got a text from my doctor’s office reminding me of my Nov. 1 appointment. It instructed me to reply with a “Y” for confirm or “N” to cancel. Puzzled, I entered “N” and thought no more about it, figuring the office hadn’t yet updated its calendar. On Halloween, I got another text of that Nov. 1 appointment, which I again replied with “N.” Worried that something was messed up, I called my doctor’s office earlier this week to confirm that new, Nov. 8 appointment. Another receptionist, who had only been there three days, said, “Well, there’s nothing here about that, but we did have you as a ‘no show’ on Nov. 1.”

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MARK MY WORDS

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.

I almost burst into hysterical laughter. I told her I called to cancel by phone and texted twice to cancel. All, apparently, to no avail. This whole misadventure triggered my latest, most helpful, mantra: LULU. Those letters stand for: Loosen up, lighten up. They’re a terrific stress reliever. I wish I could say LULU was my own

creation, but it’s a little-known holiday that’s celebrated on Nov. 14. Like Kindness Day that I wrote about last week, celebrated the day before LULU, most of us could use a huge dose of this holiday as well. We know the negative effects of stress: anxiety, outbursts of anger, bouts of depression and high blood pressure, to name a few. LULU is a free and effective way to lessen the stress that’s part of life in the modern world and put things into perspective. I loved those SNICKERS® commercials that began in 2010. The first one featured

Betty White and Abe Vigoda playing in a pickup football game. Betty portrayed a wide receiver; Abe, a quarterback. Obviously, the teammates are unhappy with the ineptitude of Betty and Abe. Before tempers flare, a woman comes to the rescue and hands Betty a SNICKERS® bar and “she” turns back into the teammate’s young, athletic friend. The tag line of the ad campaign was: “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry.” I’d suggest a modification of that line: “You’re not you when you’re stressed.” Stress transforms us from loving and patient human beings into discontent and disagreeable ogres. It alienates rather than unites people. LULU can become our SNICKERS® bar, restoring us to the Christian people we’re meant to be. Probably the best way to LULU is prayer. Spending time in silence or reading the Bible or a spiritual book can calm the spirit and

open the way for God’s grace to flow upon us. It takes us out of our hectic schedules and lets us experience time in a different way. Other LULU activities might be stepping away from our cellphones for a day (or at least a few hours), enjoying a visit with friends, taking a leisurely walk or getting “lost” in a favorite hobby. Come to think of it, we have an invitation to “loosen up and lighten up” every week. We call it the Sabbath, a time to imitate what our Creator did on the seventh day in the Book of Genesis: rest. Attending Mass should be just the start of a time to leave the busyness of the world behind for a day and rediscover what it means to truly be a human “being.” Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” The only question is: Will we?

This time of year reminds us that time is growing short

t’s that time of year again. In much of the country, the leaves are falling, nights are lengthening, frost is appearing on the ground — and the readings at Sunday Mass are turning once more to talk of danger and death. Let’s be honest. That’s not exactly the cheerful sort of message most of us want to hear right now, in these weeks before the holidays. The messages contained in the readings may not be what we want to hear, but — like the song goes — they’re just what we need. They are reminders to be alert, be aware, be ready. Don’t take anything

DEACON GREG KANDRA Deacon Greg Kandra is an award-winning author and journalist, and creator of the blog “The Deacon’s Bench.” He serves in the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York.

for granted, especially God’s final verdict on our lives. Time grows short.

And yes: Judgment is coming. This is a moment to consider what has been and what will be. As we prepare for the start of a new year in the life of the church, we have an opportunity to reflect on our past mistakes, the limits of this life and the promise and hope of the life to come. So, what can we do to avoid disappointment? Begin by taking stock, because time is growing short. We have just three weeks before the start of Advent, the season of preparation for Christmas and Christ’s coming into the world, which comes just after the Sunday that

may have the most extravagant title on the church’s calendar: The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. The message is unmistakable. The end is near. You want to start working on resolutions for the new year? This is a good time to prepare. It’s also a good time to realize that while the weeks ahead may contain feasts and celebrations and extravagant dinners, with events to plan and cards to send, some things are unknowable. Mariah Carey may be warming up on the radio, but there is still time before the Christmas onslaught to seek out a bit of quiet — to pause

and reflect. We can never predict just when the King will call, when the Bridegroom will knock on the door, when the life we know will come to an end. The verse before Sunday’s Gospel captures the lesson of these readings perfectly: “Stay awake and be ready! For you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” This is especially meaningful and sobering during this month that began with prayers to all the saints and remembrances for all the souls. The remembrances continue. And Sundays like this one challenge us not only to remember, but to never forget.

No one wins with war; each life lost represents defeat, pope says ROME (CNS) — As the sun broke through the morning sky after a torrential downpour in Rome, Pope Francis was wheeled past dozens of gravestones that marked the final resting place of members of the military forces who died during and immediately after World War II. He carried a bouquet of large white roses and had an aide

place it at a grave. The pope then continued along the green lawn, hands clasped briefly in prayer. “So many innocent dead, so many soldiers who leave their lives there,” the pope said later in his homily at Mass celebrated Nov. 2 at the Rome War Cemetery, the burial place of members of the military forces of the Commonwealth. “Wars are always a defeat, always. There is no total victory, no. Yes, one wins over the other,

but behind it, there is always the defeat of the price paid,” he said. Looking at the ages of those buried, the pope said he saw that “most of them were between 20 and 30 years old. Lives cut short, lives without a future here.” The same thing is still happening today in wars, he said. “We ask the Lord for peace, so that people will no longer kill each other in wars,” he said, marking the feast of All Souls.

COLUMNISTS 15

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

A

Order’s foundress guides the journey of her Sisters still

direct flight from the United States to Cuba was challenging at the end of 2010, when we set out for Havana to establish our religious congregation’s first mission at the island’s only major seminary. Due to the 60-yearold embargo imposed by our nation’s Treasury Department on Cuba’s revolutionary government, the only way to enter the country directly was by charter flights, involving a lot of paperwork, stress and sometimes long delays. Despite the relative closeness of our countries, we took the long way around to reach the island. A flight took

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SET APART

SISTER EVA-MARIA ACKERMAN, FSGM Sister Eva-Maria Ackerman, FSGM, is the Delegate for Religious and Consecrated Life for the archdiocese.

us from St. Louis via Atlanta, to Dusseldorf, Germany. We then journeyed by convent van to the small

village of Thuine, the very birthplace of our religious congregation, the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George. During our days in our motherhouse, we Sisters often walked to the cemetery to visit the grave of Mother M. Anselma Bopp, who founded our religious community in 1869.

Fortified in spirit, we soon left frigid northern Germany for our final destination in tropical Havana. Climbing aboard the seminary bus with the rector and seminarians, we traveled down a highway dotted with royal palms and mango trees to our new home on the city’s peripheries, Seminario San Carlos y San Ambrosio. Along the way, we saw many people traveling in all forms of transportation: colorful American cars from the 1950s, horsedrawn carts, buses crammed with passengers, trucks specially made to carry people standing up, motorcycles with sidecars, and

bicycles. There were hitchhikers and people simply walking down the highway on their way home, carrying children, heavy bags of food and clothes. All of us travelers had a single purpose that day: to reach our destination. Our foundress, Mother M. Anselma, offers her Sisters an important itinerary for our journey through her maxim: “The surest way to heaven is to be simple, humble and faithful in your duties.” She manifested this “how to be” because the love of her life, Jesus Christ, not only showed her the way of simplicity, humility and faithfulness in

all areas of life, but he also was “the way” ( Jn 14:6), her way to heaven. Each day, we set out anew to our final goal with trust. Jesus is our way, our roadmap and our means of taking us to places we never expected to go, near and far. He shows us what to do when we encounter challenges and meet fellow travelers along the way. I thank God for the gift of a seasoned traveler, Mother M. Anselma, who teaches me and accompanies me to my ultimate destination: life on high with Christ Jesus in heaven.

Our freedom to worship was won by the sacrifice of others

recently toured Washington, D.C., including the Congress, Arlington National Cemetery, the World War II Memorial and many other sites where great sacrifices are commemorated. Those sacrifices were made for the sake of freedom. I was moved to tears many times thinking of the people that I do not even know who gave their lives so that my family and I can live in freedom. I am so grateful to those servants and patriots. The preciousness of earthly freedom is a great inheritance indeed, and it drove me to reflect on the verse from the Gospel

W

SEEKING CHRIST’S HEART

DEACON DANA NEARMYER Deacon Dana Nearmyer is the director of evangelization for the archdiocese.

of John which says, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live

reverence and reminds us all what freedom costs. Going to Mass is our greatest privilege of freedom. We honor the Father by doing what he asked us to do. We do not memorialize the dead: We share in the divine life of our living Creator. We must pass on this understanding and lifeline of hope to the world, which suffers from addiction, depression and that is too often drawn to deaths of despair. Locally, eucharistic freedom and amazement are offered at each parish Mass. Regionally, Camp Tekakwitha and Prairie Star Ranch inspire eucharistic amazement in young people.

If you are looking for a national-scale Catholic experience, on July 17-21, 2024, the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis will bring 80,000 pilgrims together to grow as missionary disciples. Limited hotels, event passes and extensive information are available on the website at: archkck.org/ eucharistic-revival. God built us for intimacy with him. We are strongest and freest when we are dependent on God. Moment by moment, he shows us the miracle of the seasons, the laughter and embrace of our loved ones, calling us to be his royal children and to invite others to that sacred freedom.

Real solutions require real conversations

hat if our politics were informed

by love? No, this is not a hippy manifesto. In a way, all politics are informed by love, albeit too often it’s exclusive love of self and those close to oneself. Hence, Murphy’s Law states: “Where someone stands on an issue is often determined by where one sits.” However, Christ trounces this rule of the posterior when he proclaims the golden rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” While it’s a wonderful guide in our daily dealings, how

forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world” (6:51). Jesus died an unwarranted gruesome death freely, so you and I can live forever in heaven, in intimacy with him and our loved ones. I love the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the reverence that

is observed day after day for our fallen unknown heroes. Honoring our country’s heroes fosters gratitude and patriotism. Honoring Christ fosters peace and faithfulness. Jesus lived, died and rose in the greatest acts that the world has ever known, but that is not even the most amazing part of his story. The most amazing chapter of his story unfolds every day in reading the living word of God, praying to a living and caring Lord and actually sharing in his divine life each time that we participate in Communion. Visiting sacred sites teaches the young

DO UNTO OTHERS

DEACON BILL SCHOLL Deacon Scholl is the archdiocesan consultant for social justice. You can email him at: socialjustice@archkck.org.

often do we let this rule guide us in our politics? As members of a

democracy, we as citizens are supposed to consider our own self interests when we vote and when we advocate for certain policies. Socrates (no fan of democracy — especially the one that elected for him to drink hemlock) was always quick to point out the shortfall

of democracy is that the mob does not always know what is really in its best interests. His example is that if children were to vote for their dietitian, they invariably would pick the one who gave them the most sweets and not the one who chose the healthiest food. With the golden rule, Christ challenges us to see ourselves in another and to love by looking for him in all souls and desiring their authentic good. Truth and love must go hand in hand, otherwise we don’t really achieve the good of others or ourselves. Even a precursory glance of the Gospel

makes one thing clear — love is a big deal to God and he wants it to be the motive for everything we do. St. Paul shows us the most excellent way of love: “Faith, hope and love remain, these three, but the greatest of these is love” (1 Cor 13:13). Now, a lot has been written about love and what it is exactly. Personally, I like Aquinas’ definition: “Love is willing the good of another and accomplishing that good.” Currently, we are discerning just how the church can accomplish the common good in our communities. With the help of our community outreach

coordinator, Tim Rives, the archdiocesan office for social justice is reaching out to parishes and other congregations to bring neighbors together for conversations about local problems and how we can work together to address issues of violence, housing and the livability needs of the most vulnerable. Informed by listening and emboldened by relationship, we advocate together on the local level to achieve real solutions by working with our elected leaders. Now, that takes a lot of love, but by Jesus’s example and Christ’s grace — we have the love!

LOCAL NEWS 16

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 | THELEAVEN.ORG

SUBMITTED BY LAURA CORDOVA/NATIVITY SPANISH TEACHER

Nativity Parish School in Leawood displayed its third annual Día de los Muertos ofrenda on Nov. 2. Nativity’s fifth grade students created papel picado banners, gathered photos of their loved ones who have passed away and brought in decorations for the altar.

SUBMITTED BY RHIANNON MENDEZ/K-8 SPANISH TEACHER AT CURÉ OF ARS SCHOOL

Curé of Ars School in Leawood held its second annual Día de los Muertos all-school ofrenda this year. All students participated in creating items for the altar at Curé, and the middle school students made personal box altar projects for their deceased loved ones.

DAY OF THE DEAD The Leaven asked for, and received, many photos of individuals’ and schools’ altars, ofrendas and other images related to the Day of the Dead. Here are some of the best. To see more, go to: facebook.com/theleavenkc.

COURTESY PHOTO

Eladio and Toni Valdez, members of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, created three ofrendas in their home. One has all their family members that have passed away; another has their parents’ pictures and items that belonged to them; and the altar pictured above contains photos of all the recent friends they’ve lost within the past year. The couple prays the rosary each night in their presence to honor the blessings those individuals were to their lives.

Amanda Lynn Silver, a nurse at Children’s Mercy Hospital and a member of Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner, went all out with her makeup and costume for Día de los Muertos.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY COURTNEY WILLIAMS

SUBMITTED BY ST. MATTHEW SCHOOL, TOPEKA, PRINCIPAL THERESA LEIN

Students at St. Matthew School in Topeka created a Day of the Dead altar with materials that explain the meaning behind the tradition.

The above Día de los Muertos ofrenda was created by Rachel Heisey, a member of Church of the Nativity in Leawood, for her Overland Park home. An ofrenda is a home offering displayed atop and around an altar during Día de los Muertos, which is traditionally celebrated Nov. 1-2.